WEEKLY MESSAGE 4/30/2017

Today’s gospel from Luke is one of twelve post ‐resurrection stories of
Jesus found in the four gospels. In all four of the gospels the writers tell of
Jesus’ post‐resurrection appearance to all the disciples. Although, the place of the appearance differs between Jerusalem and Galilee. Three of the gospels (Mathew, Mark and John) have an account relating to Mary Magdalene. Interestingly, Luke’s gospel, which is sometimes referred as the Gospel for Women, has no mention of Jesus appearing to any women. What all four gospels do have in common is the confusion, despair, fear, loss, and disbelief that the disciples experienced after Jesus’ crucifixion and the report of his resurrection.

Luke’s
On the Road to Emmaus story that we hear proclaimed today is one of my favorite gospel meditations. Using the journey motif as its central metaphor, the inspired evangelist illustrates the significant movements of our own spiritual journey with the Risen Lord. Like the two disciples in the gospel, we often approach our encounter with Jesus from an experience of some form of loss. Our losses build upon one another and form into fear, despair, and even at times, disbelief.

Henri Nouwen in his book With Burning Hearts uses this Emmaus story to show how in the breaking of the bread our lives are transformed just like the disciples in Luke’s gospel. Nouwen writes that as we share our stories of transformation, our personal encounters with Jesus go out to the larger community who have also encountered Jesus in life‐changing ways. Our hearts too, ‘burn within us’ (LK 24:32). Jesus appears in our midst and our eyes are open and we recognize him (LK 24:31). Our journey inward precedes our journey outward sharing Jesus’ presence and peace with others (LK 24:36‐37). Just like the Emmaus Road disciples we can’t wait to share our spiritual story with others.

Today’s gospel is my invitation to experience a spiritual change. Changing my heart from despair and grief into a burning, joyful heart. It also reminds me that Jesus has also commissioned me to be a witness to his Good News.